Frequently asked questions for Cimetidine
Cimetidine
Q. How can Cimetidine cause gynecomastia?
Cimetidine causes gynecomastia (enlarged breasts of males) by decreasing the male hormone (testosterone) levels and blocking the sensitivity of the target areas on which testosterone acts. However, the breast enlargement is not bothersome. Please consult your doctor if this worries you.Q. Can I take Cimetidine with loperamide?
Cimetidine can decrease the metabolism of Loperamide, increase its blood levels. This can in turn increase the effects and side effects of Loperamide. So, consult your doctor prior to taking both the medicines together as your dose of Loperamide may need to be decreased.Q. Is there any vitamin and mineral loss when Cimetidine is taken?
Cimetidine is not known to cause vitamin and mineral loss or deficiency. However, Cimetidine belongs to the class of H2 receptor blocker which can decrease vitamin B12 absorption and cause its deficiency as reported in some studies especially when used for more than two years. Q. Is Cimetidine an antacid?
No, Cimetidine is not an antacid as it does not neutralize the acids of the stomach rather it works by decreasing the production of the acid.Q. Are there any withdrawal symptoms associated with the use of Cimetidine?
Clinical studies or reports so far have not reported any withdrawal symptoms when the patient stops taking Cimetidine and this suggests that Cimetidine has no addictive potential.Q. Can I take Cimetidine with antacids?
Antacids and Cimetidine both can be taken at the same time as they are not known to affect each other’s action. However, both Cimetidine and antacids help in decreasing the acidity and use of more than one drug for the same effect is not advisable unless absolutely necessary.Q. Can I take Cimetidine with coffee?
There are no reports of any harmful effects of taking Cimetidine along with coffee. However, Cimetidine can decrease the breakdown of coffee and increase its effects. Also, coffee is a gastric stimulant and can increase acid secretion and aggravate your underlying condition.Q. How is Omeprazole better than Cimetidine?
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor and Cimetidine is an H2 receptor blocker. They act in different ways but both decrease the acid production in the stomach. However, according to some studies, omeprazole is more potent, longer acting, and has fewer side effects when compared to Cimetidine.Q. Why should Cimetidine be taken at bedtime?
Cimetidine can be given as a single daily dose or as multiple daily doses depending on your condition. When given in a single dose, it is preferred that you should take it before going to bed as it is very effective in decreasing nighttime acid secretion and a fixed time will help you to remember to take the medicine.Q. Does Cimetidine work for molluscum contagiosum?
Oral Cimetidine has been seen to be effective in treating molluscum in children. However, this is not an approved indication for its use. Please consult your doctor before taking it for this condition.Q. Why does Cimetidine increase the action of opiates?
Cimetidine increases the action of an opioid like substances by inhibiting enzymes which are responsible for the breakdown of opiates. Due to a decrease in the breakdown, opioid levels increase in the body and hence their action is also increased.Q. Is Cimetidine available over the counter?
No, Cimetidine is not available as an over-the-counter medication. It is a prescription medicine and is available only when prescribed by a physician.